Arsenal ‘target £65m Premier League striker’ after Victor Osimhen decision

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke this summer.

After finishing runners-up in the last two seasons, Arsenal are looking to make the necessary improvements to build a squad that can end their long wait for a Premier League title.

The Gunners have identified the forward line as an area in need of strengthening despite Kai Havertz proving he can operate in the number nine role during the latter stages of last season.

Arsenal had been linked with a move for Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, but they supposedly dropped their interest due to the player’s €130m (£110.6m) release clause.

With the Gunners prepared to give up their pursuit of Osimhen, they are now scouring the market for potential alternative targets.

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Arsenal considering Solanke move

RB Leipzig marksman Benjamin Sesko is a possible option, but the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle United are also chasing the Slovenian’s signature.

While Sesko is believed to be one of Arsenal’s top targets, the Daily Express are reporting that the Gunners are also showing an interest in Bournemouth’s Solanke.

Arsenal are unlikely to have a free run at Solanke, with their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur believed to be among his admirers.

In a separate report, The Athletic claims that the striker has a £65m release clause in his Bournemouth contract which can only be triggered by certain clubs.

However, it is currently unclear which clubs would be eligible to activate the player’s release clause this summer.

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Bournemouth hoping to keep Solanke

While Solanke may be attracting considerable interest, Bournemouth will still be keen to retain the services of one of their most prized assets.

Solanke racked up 19 goals in 38 top-flight matches last season, becoming Bournemouth’s highest scorer in a Single Premier League campaign.

The 26-year-old finished in joint-fourth place in the Premier League scoring charts behind Erling Haaland, Cole Palmer and Alexander Isak.

In total, Solanke has registered 77 goals and 31 assists in 216 appearances since joining the Cherries from Liverpool in 2019.

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